Despite the expectation of Japan’s early acceptance of surrender, the streets of Northam were dark and empty just before midnight on Tuesday.

But, within a very short time of the official announcement a complete change took place. Lights appeared in the windows and voices could be heard calling, ‘It’s all over, Japan has given in’. Then followed the music of an impromptu band and choir parading the streets.

Early on Wednesday morning villagers were busy with decorations. Services of thanksgiving and prayer were held in Parish Churches. In the evening the streets were crowded people wending their way to the Square where dancing to the accompaniment of music from a Radio Van was carried on until well past midnight.

Thursday night saw the culmination of the celebrations when a fancy dress parade enlivened the streets with its bright colours. On Bone Hill a bonfire was lit and then followed dancing on the Square as on the previous night.

One and all entered into the spirit of final victory and a thoroughly enjoyable time was spent by old and young. The village’s thanks are due to those tradesmen who organised the festivities on both evenings.

Gazette article dated 21 August 1945